1 Once I was pure as dews that fall
From the morning clouds above.
Now I am held in the world’s dark thrall,
Away from the Father’s love.

Refrain:
Then pray for your boy tonight!
Tonight, oh, pray for me!
Pray God to give your boy the light,
To lead him to Heaven and thee.

2 Weary the world, and dark and wild,
And with many a fatal snare,
As onward sweeps the surging tide,
Away from God and prayer. [Refrain]

3 Mother, my heart is hard and cold,
And is blighted with grief and care;
Pray for your boy as oft of old,
When a child beside your chair. [Refrain]

4 Tho’ in the toils of sin your boy
Yet is wandering far from home,
Often he yearns for the olden joy,
Before he began to roam. [Refrain]